Best Phones Under $400 Reviewed in 2025

In 2025, snagging a top-tier smartphone doesn't require breaking the bank. The budget phone market has exploded with options that pack premium features like stunning AMOLED displays, long-lasting batteries, capable cameras, and even AI smarts—all for under $400. Whether you're scrolling social media, streaming videos, or snapping everyday photos, these devices deliver without the flagship price tag.

Gone are the days of sluggish performance or outdated software. Thanks to fierce competition from brands like Samsung, Google, Motorola, and Nothing, you can now get 5G connectivity, water resistance, and years of updates on a dime. In this guide, we've rounded up the best phones under $400 based on hands-on testing from trusted sources like Android Central, PCMag, WIRED, and Wirecutter. We'll dive into specs, pros, cons, and why each shines (or skimps) in real-world use. Let's find your perfect pocket powerhouse.

Why Choose a Phone Under $400 in 2025?

Budget phones aren't just "good enough" anymore—they're game-changers. At this price, expect:

• Vibrant 120Hz displays for buttery-smooth scrolling.
• All-day (or multi-day) battery life with fast charging.
• Solid cameras for social media-ready shots.
• Clean software with 3–7 years of updates for security and new features.

But not all sub-$400 phones are created equal. Some skimp on low-light photography or gaming power, while others excel in durability or AI tools. We prioritized unlocked models compatible with major U.S. carriers like Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile. Prices fluctuate with sales (hello, October Prime Day!), so check retailers like Amazon or Best Buy for deals.

Ready to upgrade? Here are our top picks, ranked by overall value.

1. Samsung Galaxy A36 5G – Best Overall Under $400

The Samsung Galaxy A36 5G earns its crown as the best all-rounder for under $400, blending reliable performance, a gorgeous screen, and Samsung's ecosystem perks at just $350–$380.

Key Specs:

• Display: 6.7-inch Super AMOLED, 120Hz refresh rate, 1,000 nits brightness.
• Processor: Exynos 1380 (solid for multitasking and light gaming).
• RAM/Storage: 6GB/128GB (expandable via microSD).
• Camera: 50MP main (OIS), 12MP ultrawide, 5MP macro; 13MP front.
• Battery: 5,000mAh with 25W wired charging.
• Other Features: IP67 water/dust resistance, Galaxy AI (Circle to Search, photo editing), 6 years of OS updates.
• Price: $379 (often $350 on sale).

Review Highlights:

In our testing (echoing Android Central and PhoneArena), the A36's AMOLED panel pops with vibrant colors—perfect for Netflix binges or TikTok doom-scrolls. The Exynos chip handles apps like Instagram and Chrome flawlessly, though it warms up during extended Genshin Impact sessions. Camera-wise, daytime shots are sharp and natural, with AI enhancements fixing overexposed skies effortlessly. Battery lasted 12+ hours in mixed use, and the IP67 rating means no sweat during rainy commutes.

Pros: Stunning display, long software support, expandable storage. Cons: No wireless charging; macro lens is meh.

If you love Samsung's intuitive One UI and want future-proofing, this is your pick. It's a step up from the budget Galaxy A16 5G, which trades some polish for a $200 price tag.

2. Google Pixel 9a – Best for Camera and Software

Google's Pixel 9a ($399) is the photography nerd's dream in the sub-$400 club, delivering flagship-level AI camera magic and pure Android bliss.

Key Specs:

• Display: 6.1-inch OLED, 120Hz, HDR10+.
• Processor: Tensor G4 (optimized for AI tasks).
• RAM/Storage: 8GB/128GB or 256GB.
• Camera: 48MP main (excellent low-light), 13MP ultrawide; 13MP front with Magic Editor.
• Battery: 4,800mAh with 18W charging.
• Other Features: IP68 resistance, 7 years of updates, Gemini AI integration.
• Price: $399.

Review Highlights:

WIRED and Tom's Guide rave about the Pixel 9a's computational photography—night shots rival the $800 Pixel 9, with zero shutter lag and effortless portrait mode. The Tensor G4 shines in voice-to-text and photo editing, but it's not a gaming beast (expect minor stutters in heavy titles). Battery holds up for 10 hours of screen time, and the compact design feels premium in hand. Software support until 2032? Unbeatable at this price.

Pros: Best-in-class cameras, clean Android, long-term updates. Cons: Slower charging; smaller battery than rivals.

Skip if you need expandable storage—this is for Google fans who prioritize smarts over specs.

3. Motorola Moto G Power (2025) – Best Battery Life

For marathon users, the Moto G Power (2025) ($299) is a endurance champ, boasting rugged build and features rarely seen under $300.

Key Specs:

• Display: 6.8-inch IPS LCD, 120Hz.
• Processor: MediaTek Dimensity 6300 (decent for daily tasks).
• RAM/Storage: 8GB/128GB (microSD expandable to 1TB).
• Camera: 50MP main (OIS), 8MP ultrawide; 16MP front.
• Battery: 5,000mAh with 30W wired + 15W wireless charging.
• Other Features: IP69 water resistance, MIL-STD-810H durability, 3.5mm jack, 2 OS updates/3 years security.
• Price: $299.

Review Highlights:

Wirecutter calls it a "premium-feeling package" for effortless all-day use, with battery tests hitting 14+ hours. The IP69 rating laughs off submersion and drops, making it ideal for active lifestyles. Cameras are solid in daylight but soften in low light; the Dimensity chip multitasks well but lags in intensive gaming. Wireless charging? A budget rarity!

Pros: Epic battery, tough build, affordable extras like headphone jack. Cons: LCD screen (not as vivid as AMOLED); shorter updates.

Perfect for forgetful chargers or outdoor adventurers—stick with the 2024 model if you crave snappier performance.

4. Nothing Phone (3a) – Best Design and Value

Nothing's Phone (3a) ($349) turns heads with its Glyph lights and modular vibes, offering flagship aesthetics on a budget.

Key Specs:

• Display: 6.7-inch AMOLED, 120Hz, 3,000 nits peak.
• Processor: Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 (smooth for most apps).
• RAM/Storage: 8GB/128GB or 256GB.
• Camera: 50MP main + 50MP telephoto; 32MP front.
• Battery: 5,000mAh with 45W charging.
• Other Features: IP64 resistance, Nothing OS 3.1 (Android 15), customizable Glyph interface.
• Price: $349 (beta program drops it to $280).

Review Highlights:

Gizchina and WIRED praise the telephoto lens—a sub-$400 unicorn—for crisp 2x zooms, plus the blazing-bright screen for sunny days. Performance flies through social apps and light editing, with Nothing OS feeling fresh and bloat-free. Battery sips power for 11 hours, and the modular back adds fun utility.

Pros: Unique design, telephoto camera, fast charging. Cons: Glyph lights are gimmicky; average low-light shots.

A stylish steal for minimalists who want something different from cookie-cutter Samsungs.

5. Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G (2025) – Best for Productivity

Note-takers rejoice: The Moto G Stylus 5G (2025) ($399) bundles a built-in pen with versatile hardware for under $400.

Key Specs:

• Display: 6.7-inch pOLED, 120Hz.
• Processor: Snapdragon 6 Gen 3.
• RAM/Storage: 8GB/256GB (microSD slot).
• Camera: 50MP main (OIS), 13MP ultrawide; 32MP front.
• Battery: 5,000mAh with 68W wired + wireless charging.
• Other Features: IP68 resistance, stylus for jotting/drawing, 3.5mm jack.
• Price: $399 (sales dip to $350).

Review Highlights:

Android Central highlights the stylus's precision for OneNote sketches, paired with speedy 68W charging (full in 30 minutes). The pOLED screen is a glow-up from last year, and IP68 keeps it safe. Cameras impress with ultrawide versatility, though video stabilization jitters.

Pros: Built-in stylus, huge storage, rapid charging. Cons: Stylus lacks pressure sensitivity; bulkier design.

Ideal for students or pros needing quick annotations on the go.

Quick Comparison: Best Phones Under $400 at a Glance

Scores based on aggregated reviews; battery from mixed-use tests.

How We Tested These Phones

We drew from expert benchmarks by PCMag, WIRED, and Gizchina, focusing on real-world scenarios: 4K video streaming, app switching, camera low-light tests, and drop simulations. Durability followed MIL-STD standards, while software longevity was verified via manufacturer promises.

Tips for Buying a Budget Phone in 2025

• Prioritize Updates: Aim for 4+ years to stay secure—Samsung and Google lead here.
• Carrier Compatibility: All picks are unlocked, but double-check bands for your network.
• Deals Alert: Watch Amazon's October 7–8 Big Deal Days for 20–30% off.
• Trade-Ins: Sites like Gazelle offer $50–$100 credits for old devices.
• Avoid Pitfalls: Steer clear of no-name brands with poor support; refurbished Pixels save cash but check warranties.

Upgrade Smart, Not Expensive

In 2025, the best phones under $400 prove you don't need $1,000 for a great experience. The Samsung Galaxy A36 5G takes the top spot for its balance of features and longevity, but the Pixel 9a steals hearts for shutterbugs. Whichever you choose, these handsets punch way above their weight—leaving more room in your budget for apps, cases, or that coffee run.